The experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities attending a mindfulness-based group intervention

Abstract

A growing body of research supports the efficacy of mindfulness-based intervention programmes (MBPs) for people with intellectual disabilities. Existing literature calls for focus on the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities participating in MBPs. This study explored the experiences of nine adults with intellectual disabilities attending an eightweek group MBP delivered within the community. Two audio-recorded group discussions and seven semi-structured interviews were thematically analysed. Themes were: participants’ experience of the group as a meaningful and enjoyable activity; opportunities for socialisation, sharing, friendship and support; the significance of participant-facilitator relationships; and how participants’ understood and experienced the mindfulness exercises and concepts. Some understanding of mindfulness was evident and participants demonstrated an ability to engage in mindfulness exercises. Findings inform the development of effective MBPs for people with intellectual disabilities.